Philippine Navy plans to acquire eight Israeli-made Shaldag-class fast patrol boats.

According to information released by the Jerusalem Post Website on July 12, 2020, Philippine Navy shows interest to acquire eight Shaldag-class fast patrol boats to replace its medium-sized patrol crafts that have been in use since the mid-1990s.
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Israeli-made Shaldag-class MK III fast patrol boat. (Picture source israel-shipyards.com)

The Shaldag-class is a small fast class of patrol boats developed by Israel Shipyards Limited (ISL) for the Israeli Navy and launched in 1989, it has since seen service with several other navies. The SHALDAG-class is available in three versions, namely SHALDAG MK II, SHALDAG MK III/IV, and SHALDAG MK V. It has an overall length of 25.30 m.

The SHALDAG is most valued for security tasks where high intercept speeds and easy maneuverability are required. In addition, the vessel is equipped with highly advanced weapons systems, produced by world-recognized Israeli designers.

The combat-proven success of this unique ISL craft was quickly established with the Israeli Navy, attracting the attention of many other Naval forces. Drawing on extensive operational experience in different environments, the craft continued to be improved, including the addition of newer lightweight weapons systems.

The Shaldag MK II is a multi-mission combat-proven vessel. Due to its special all-aluminum design and a top speed of above 45 knots, it is one of the fastest FPCs in the naval arena, assisting navies, coast guards, and law enforcement authorities in missions where high intercept speeds are required.

The Shaldag-class fast patrol boat can be armed with a 25mm automatic gun mounted at the front deck, as well as 12.7mm or 7.62mm machine guns. For the Philippine Navy, the patrol boat will also be armed with non-light-of-sight (NLOS) missiles that have a range of 25 km.